Explosion proof assembly

ABSTRACT

An explosion proof assembly that includes a first portion with a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of a first portion rear face; and a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion. The second portion has a second portion inner surface. The second portion has a second portion window sealed off by a rear element sealingly engaged around a perimeter of a second portion shoulder surface. The assembly includes a mobile device operable via a mobile device touchscreen. Upon assembly, the outer touchscreen is transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen, and the rear element is inductive to an electromagnetic signal.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND Background of the Disclosure

The use of electrical devices in hazardous areas may lead to anincreased risk of a fire or explosion triggered by the presence of theelectrical device. For instance, an electrical device may serve as anignition source in a hazardous area containing flammable gasses, vaporsor dust. For this reason, electrical devices used in hazardous areas areoften required to be certified according to the requirements specifiedin that particular jurisdiction. Further, often the types of protectionsrequired vary depending on the risks and hazards involved.

Hazardous environments have been categorized and regulated, but thespecific classification, regulating, and governing thereof depends onjurisdiction. Electrical codes and standards for hazardous areas aregenerally understood as having two distinct paths. In North America, a‘Class, Division’ system has been utilized, whereas other parts of theworld use a ‘Zone System’ based predominantly on standards from theInternational Eletrochemical Commission (IEC) and European Community forElectrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). A main difference is in theZone system is that the level of hazard probability is divided intothree ‘zones’ as opposed to two ‘divisions’

The types of hazardous environments are broken down into three classes,with each class focusing on different types of hazardous materials inthe surrounding atmosphere. For instance: Class I areas includeflammable gasses or vapors present in the air in sufficient quantitiesto produce an explosion in the presence of an ignition source; Class IIareas include the presence of combustible dusts; and Class III areasinclude ignitable fibers or other materials too heavy to be suspended inthe air in sufficient quantities to produce an ignitable mixture (e.g.,wood chips, cotton, nylon, etc.).

Two common types of hazardous areas requiring protection for electricaldevices are areas that contain flammable vapors and areas containingdust or other particulates susceptible to ignition. Further, each classis divided into two divisions based on the probability of hazardousmaterials being present in an ignitable or combustible concentration inthe surrounding air. Division 1 defines hazardous environments where thepertinent hazardous material (e.g., vapors, dust, fibers) is presentduring normal conditions. Division 2 defines hazardous environmentswhere the pertinent hazardous material is present only in abnormal orfault conditions (e.g., in the event of a container failure or otherleak).

Regarding Class I hazardous environments involving flammable vapors, anelectrical device may be used in such an area via an explosion proofenclosure or assembly configured to keep an internal explosion withinthe explosion proof enclosure from escaping outward, where it wouldignite vapors outside of the enclosure. Thus, with regard toenvironments having flammable vapors, explosion proof assemblies aredesigned to both reduce the entry of flammable materials into theenclosure and also, in the event of an explosion within the enclosure,to prevent the escape of hot or burning material from escaping theenclosure.

Regarding Class II hazardous environments involving ignitable dusts andparticulates, an electrical device may be used in such an area via adust-ignition proof enclosure or assembly that is configured to preventignitable materials from entering the enclosure and by containing anyarcs, sparks or heat within the enclosure that may ignite dust or otherparticulates in the surrounding environment. Also, there existsassemblies and enclosures for use with an electrical device that arereferred to as “intrinsically safe,” where an intrinsically safeassembly including an electrical device is incapable of releasingsufficient electrical or thermal energy to cause ignition of a specifichazardous substance (i.e., Class I, Class II and Class III substances)under normal or abnormal conditions. Further, “non-incendive” componentsare non-sparking and can be used in Div 1, Zone 1 areas when coupledwith explosion proof enclosure.

While assemblies or enclosures have been developed for use in hazardousareas, these components are often expensive and not configured for usewith particular electrical devices. Also, these components may onlysatisfy the requirements for a particular class and division, and thusmay not be used in other hazardous environments or in hazardousenvironments under abnormal conditions (i.e., Division 2 conditions).Further, these components may be permanently coupled to the protectedelectrical device, restricting the use of multiple electrical deviceswith the same enclosure. Thus, there is a need in the art for anintrinsically safe or explosion proof assembly and/or enclosure capableof being safely used in varying types of conditions hazardousenvironments. Also, it would be beneficial if such an enclosure was notpermanently coupled to or formed integrally with the protectedelectrical device, allowing the use of different electrical devices withthe same enclosure.

It should be noted that standards differ depending on what part of theworld a user is in. It is desirous to have an explosion proof assemblyfor a mobile device capable of meeting stringent ATEX/IECEx(International Electrotechnical Commission) for zones 1 and 2, inaddition to North America Class 1, Divisions 1 and 2 for safe operationaround hazardous gas, vapor and dust-based atmospheres. This means anysuch assembly should be able to meet the most difficult part of anyspecification, which may be different by way of example each of ATEX,IECEx, and NA.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proof assemblythat may include first portion having one or more of: a first portionrear face; a first portion outer edge; a first portion inner edge; afirst dissipation wall; an isolator receptacle; at least one pin housingreceptacle; a corresponding pin that may be movingly disposed throughthe at least one pin housing receptacle; a sound material receptacle;and a window.

The assembly may include an outer touchscreen may be adhesively sealedaround a perimeter of the first portion rear face. The outer touchscreenmay resultantly occlude, or otherwise seal off, block, close etc. thewindow.

The assembly may include a second portion having one or more of: asecond portion inner surface that may be defined by a second portioninner edge that transitions into a second dissipation wall; a secondportion shoulder; and a second portion window.

The assembly may include a rear element, which may be adhesively sealedaround a perimeter of the second portion shoulder. The use of the rearelement may resultantly occluding the second portion window.

The assembly may include a mobile device disposed within the firstportion and the second portion. The mobile device may be operable via amobile device touchscreen. The mobile device may include an at least onespeaker/microphone.

There may be a sound material plug disposed within the sound materialreceptacle. The receptacle, and thus the plug, may be proximate to theat least one speaker/microphone. There may be a cover plate coupled withthe first portion in a manner to retain the sound material within thesound material receptacle.

In aspects, the first portion and the second portion may be releasablycoupled to each other to form an enclosure. In this respect, uponassembly thereof, the outer touchscreen may be engaged with andtransmissive to the mobile device touchscreen.

Upon coupling, the second dissipation wall may be adjacent to the firstdissipation wall.

The rear element may be inductive to an electrical charge for rechargingthe mobile device.

The mobile device may include an at least one button. In aspects, thecorresponding pin may be aligned with the at least one button. In thisrespect upon depressing of the corresponding pin may result indepressing the corresponding button.

The mobile device may include an input connector.

The assembly may include an isolator member disposed within the isolatorreceptacle.

The first portion may include a plurality of first mating apertures, andthe second portion comprises a plurality of second mating aperturescorresponding to the plurality of first mating apertures, or vice versa.One or more of respective first mating aperture and second matingaperture may have a fastener disposed therein. Any respective fastenermay be tightened to a torque value in the range of 5 Newton·meter toabout 6 Newton·meter.

The mobile device may be configured for taking photos via a camera lens.Thus, either of the first portion and/or the second portion may includea lens window. Upon assembly the camera lens and the lens window may bealigned.

The mobile device is configured for electromagnetic wireless rechargingfunctionality. The mobile device may be recharged while disposed withinthe enclosure.

The assembly may be configured to at least partially dissipate a flameresultant from an explosion of the mobile device.

The assembly may include other receptacles, such as a second soundmaterial receptacle and a second sound material plug disposed therein.

Any plug may be rectangular prism shape. Any plug material may bestainless steel sintered material. Any plug may have a porosity. Inaspects, the porosity may be between about 10 microns to about 30microns.

Other embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proofassembly that may include one or more of: a first portion; a secondportion releasably coupled therewith to form an enclosure; and a mobiledevice disposed within the enclosure.

The first portion may include: a first portion rear face; a firstportion outer edge; a first portion inner edge; a first dissipationwall; sound material receptacle; and a window.

There may be an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeterof the first portion rear face, and resultantly occluding the window.

The second portion may include: a second portion comprising a secondportion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge thattransitions into a second dissipation wall; a second portion shoulder;and a second portion window.

There may be a rear element adhesively sealed around a perimeter of thesecond portion shoulder, and resultantly occluding the second portionwindow.

The mobile device may be operable via a mobile device touchscreen. Themobile device may have an at least one speaker/microphone.

There may be a sound material disposed within the sound materialreceptacle in proximity to the at least one speaker/microphone.

The outer touchscreen may be engaged with and transmissive to the mobiledevice touchscreen.

The rear element may be inductive to an electrical charge for rechargingthe mobile device.

Other Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proofassembly that may include a first portion that may further have a firstportion rear face, a first portion outer edge, a first portion inneredge, a second dissipation wall, an isolator housing receptacle, a pinhousing receptacle, and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealedaround a perimeter of the first portion rear face; a second portionreleasably coupled to the first portion, the second portion may furtherhave a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inneredge that transitions into a first dissipation wall, an isolatorhousing, and a pin housing.

There may be a first dissipation wall, a second dissipation wall, and athird dissipation wall. The second dissipation wall may be disposedbetween the first dissipation wall and the third dissipation wall.

The assembly may include a mobile device disposed within the firstportion and the second portion. The mobile device may be operable via amobile device touchscreen. In aspects, the first portion and the secondportion may be configured to be releasably coupled to each other. Theisolator housing may mate within the isolator housing receptacle. Thepin housing may mate within the pin housing receptacle. Upon assembly,the outer touchscreen may be transmissive to the mobile devicetouchscreen of a touch actuation signal made thereon.

The mobile device may include an input connector. The isolator housingmay include an isolator bore. An isolator member may be disposed withinthe isolator bore.

The mobile device may be configured for taking photos via a camera lens.The second portion may include a lens window. Upon assembly the cameralens and the lens window may be aligned.

The mobile device may include an on-off button. The pin housing mayinclude a movable pin. Upon assembly the movable pin may be aligned withthe on-off button. In aspects, depressing of the movable pin may resultin depressing the on-off button.

The mobile device may be configured for electromagnetic wirelessrecharging functionality. The second portion may include a secondportion window. A rear window glass may be adhesively sealed therearoundto a second portion rear surface, thereby closing off the second portionwindow.

Upon coupling the assembly may be configured to at least partiallydissipate a flame resultant from an explosion of the mobile device.

Other embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proofassembly that may include a first portion comprising a first portionrear face, a first portion outer edge, a first portion inner edge, asecond dissipation wall, an isolator housing receptacle, a pin housingreceptacle, and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed arounda perimeter of the first portion rear face; a second portion releasablycoupled to the first portion to form an enclosure, the second portionfurther comprising a second portion inner surface defined by a secondportion inner edge that transitions into a first dissipation wallextending substantially therearound, an isolator housing, and a pinhousing; a mobile device disposed within the enclosure, the mobiledevice being operable via a mobile device touchscreen. The isolatorhousing may mate within the isolator housing receptacle. The pin housingmay mate within the pin housing receptacle. Upon coupling the outertouchscreen may be transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen of atouch actuation signal made thereon. The mobile device may include aninput connector. The isolator housing may include an isolator bore. Anisolator member may be disposed within the isolator bore.

Yet other embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proofassembly that may include a first portion comprising a first portionrear face, a first portion outer edge, a first portion inner edge, asecond dissipation wall, an isolator housing receptacle, a pin housingreceptacle, and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed arounda perimeter of the first portion rear face; a second portion releasablycoupled to the first portion to form an enclosure, the second portionfurther comprising a second portion inner surface defined by a secondportion inner edge that transitions into an at least first dissipationwall extending substantially therearound, an isolator housing, and a pinhousing; a mobile device disposed within the enclosure, the mobiledevice being operable via a mobile device touchscreen.

These and other embodiments, features and advantages will be apparent inthe following detailed description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full understanding of embodiments disclosed herein is obtained fromthe detailed description of the disclosure presented herein below, andthe accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration onlyand are not intended to be limitative of the present embodiments, andwherein:

FIG. 1A shows a front-side isometric assembled view of an explosionproof tablet assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 1B shows a back-side isometric assembled view of the explosionproof tablet assembly of FIG. 1A according to embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 1C shows a front-side isometric component breakout view of theexplosion proof tablet assembly of FIG. 1A according to embodiments ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 1D shows a back-side isometric component breakout view of theexplosion proof tablet assembly of FIG. 1A a lateral cross-sectionalview of an explosion proof assembly according to embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 2A shows a lateral cross-sectional view of an explosion proofassembly according to embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 2B shows a zoom-in cross-sectional view of sealing engagement ofthe explosion proof assembly of FIG. 2A according to embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 2C shows a zoom-in cross-sectional view of a flame path with aflame therein of the explosion proof assembly of FIG. 2A according toembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 3A shows a top view of a hand-held accessory releasably coupled toa rear side of an explosion proof assembly according to embodiments ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 3B shows a top view of the hand-held accessory of FIG. 3A accordingto embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 3C shows a side profile view of a user holding the explosion proofassembly of FIG. 3A according to embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 4A shows a top view of a magnetic attachment accessory releasablycoupled to a rear side of an explosion proof assembly according toembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 4B shows a side profile view of a user using the explosion proofassembly of FIG. 4B while magnetically attached to a surface accordingto embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 5A shows a downward-looking partial frontal view of a first portionhaving another or alternative extension according to embodiments of thedisclosure; and

FIG. 5B shows a downward-looking partial frontal view of an outertouchscreen with a recessed region according to embodiments of thedisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Herein disclosed are novel apparatuses, systems, and methods thatpertain to an explosion proof assembly, details of which are describedherein.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail withreference to the accompanying Figures. In the following discussion andin the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in anopen-ended fashion, such as to mean, for example, “including, but notlimited to . . . ”. While the disclosure may be described with referenceto relevant apparatuses, systems, and methods, it should be understoodthat the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments shown ordescribed. Rather, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a varietyof configurations may be implemented in accordance with embodimentsherein.

Although not necessary, like elements in the various figures may bedenoted by like reference numerals for consistency and ease ofunderstanding. Numerous specific details are set forth in order toprovide a more thorough understanding of the disclosure; however, itwill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that theembodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without these specificdetails. In other instances, well-known features have not been describedin detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description.Directional terms, such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,”“back,” “right”, “left”, “down”, etc., are used for convenience and torefer to general direction and/or orientation, and are only intended forillustrative purposes only, and not to limit the disclosure.

Connection(s), couplings, or other forms of contact between parts,components, and so forth may include conventional items, such aslubricant, additional sealing materials, such as a gasket betweenflanges, o-rings, PTFE between threads, and the like. The make andmanufacture of any particular component, subcomponent, etc., may be aswould be apparent to one of skill in the art, such as molding, forming,machining, additive manufacturing, etc. Embodiments of the disclosureprovide for one or more components to be new, used, and/or retrofittedto existing machines and systems. One or more components may be madefrom a metallic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, milledaluminum, metal alloy, etc.

The various characteristics mentioned above, as well as other featuresand characteristics described in more detail below, will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detaileddescription of the embodiments, and by referring to the accompanyingdrawings.

Terms

The term “connected” as used herein can refer to a connection between arespective component (or subcomponent) and another component (or anothersubcomponent), which can be fixed, movable, direct, indirect, andanalogous to engaged, coupled, disposed, etc., and can be by screw,nut/bolt, weld, and so forth. Any use of any form of the terms“connect”, “engage”, “couple”, “attach”, “mount”, etc. or any other termdescribing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit theinteraction to direct interaction between the elements and may alsoinclude indirect interaction between the elements described.

The term “fluid” as used herein can refer to a liquid or gas and is notsolely related to any particular type of fluid such as hydrocarbons.

The terms “pipe”, “conduit”, “line” or the like as used herein can referto any fluid transmission means, and can be tubular in nature.

The term “combustion” as used herein can refer to an exothermic reactionbetween a fuel and an oxidant that can result in the production of aflame (the visible part of a fire) and a gaseous product.

The term “explosion” as used herein can refer to a combustion in theform of a release of energy in an extreme manner, usually with thegeneration of high temperatures and the release of gases. An explosioncan produce a flame, heat, a shock wave, a pressure wave, or othereffects. An explosion can be referred to as a form of combustion.

The term “flame” as used herein can refer to the visible part of a fire.Flame can refer to a product of a combustion reaction emitting visible,infrared, and sometimes ultraviolet light, the frequency spectrum ofwhich depends on the chemical composition of the burning material andintermediate reaction products.

The term “explosion proof assembly” as used herein can refer to anassembly that can adequately prevent an explosion in an environmentexternal to the assembly as a result of an explosion or ignited firewithin the assembly.

The term “flame extinguishing enclosure” as used herein can refer to anassemblable enclosure that upon proper coupling together provides orotherwise configures the enclosure with a flame path that is suitable toextinguish (or quench, etc.) a flame that results from a combustion,explosion, or other form of ignited fire from within the enclosure. Theterm can be further in reference to accomplishing a desiredconfiguration and result in light of certain industry, standards,specifications, requirements, etc. The term “flame dissipating” can beanalogous to flame extinguishing.

The term “flame path” as used herein can refer to a spatial region ofsome amount of direction and/or distance (linear or non-linear) withinan explosion proof assembly where a flame may traverse. The explosionproof assembly can be configured in a manner to provide a suitable flamepath that ultimately results in the extinguishing of the flame before it(or any part thereof) can leave or otherwise exit the assembly.

The term “transmissive” as used herein can refer to the ability of amaterial to pass a signal therethrough. For example, a touchscreen of anexplosion proof assembly can be transmissive of a signal created byhuman touch thereto to a touchscreen of a mobile device retained withinthe assembly that is in contact with therewith. This can occur, forexample, by changing an electrical property of both the touchscreens,such as resistance or capacitance.

The term “CNC machined” can refer to a computer numerical control (CNC)process whereby a robot or machinist runs computer-operated equipment tocreate machine parts, tools and the like.

The embodiments described herein include an explosion proof assemblythat includes a tablet computer having a touch screen, such as the iPad®or iPhone produced by Apple, Inc. Particularly, the explosion proofassembly includes a tablet computer or phone disposed within a removablycoupled enclosure. The enclosure allows for the use of the tabletcomputer or phone in hazardous areas including flammable vapors andignitable dust, corresponding to Class 1 Div 2 Class II Div 2, Class 1Div I, Class 2 Div I, Zone 2, Zone 22, Zone1 and Zone 21 areas. Also,the enclosure allows for the use of the tablet or phone in hazardousareas during Zone/Division 1, 2 conditions. Further, the assembly isconfigured to be non-incendive such that the assembly does not allow forthe release of any sparks or electrical/thermal energy sufficient tocause ignition of hazardous substances in the surrounding environment.

In an embodiment, a non-incentive, non-modified tablet computer or phone(e.g., iPad2, iPad3, iPhone8+, etc.) with an accompanying enclosure isprovided that allows a user to operate the tablet in hazardousenvironments, including Class I/Division 2, Class II/Division 2, ClassI/Division 1, Class II/Division 1, ATEX Zone 2, Zone 1 and IECExclassified areas.

Referring initially to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D together, a front-sideisometric assembled view, a back-side isometric assembled view, afront-side isometric component breakout view, and a back-side isometriccomponent breakout view, respectively, of an explosion proof assembly,in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, are shown

Explosion proof assembly 100 is shown in assembled and exploded (ordisassembled) configurations and generally includes a mobile device(such as a tablet computer or phone) 102 and an enclosure 104 having afirst or upper portion 106 that is releasably coupled to a second orlower portion 108. In embodiments, the mobile device 102 may be aproduct from Apple, Inc., such as any version of an iPad or an iPod.However, the mobile device 102 may comprise other varying types andstyles of tablet computers or phones, including but not limited to thosefrom other manufacturers. In this embodiment, enclosure portions 106,108, and other (sub)components of the enclosure 104, may be formed frommilled aluminum satisfying the NEMA 4 standard.

The enclosure 104 may be configured as a flame extinguishing enclosure.Embodiments herein provide for an explosion proof assembly 100configured to pass a ‘resistance to impact’ test in accordance with IEC60079-0 (see Section 26.4.2 describing a drop-ball test). In thedrop-ball test, an object, usually a ball of 1 kg mass, is dropped froma range of 0.2 m to 0.4 m.

Accordingly, it may be desirous for an outer touchscreen 110 to beconfigured to withstand the impact of the dropped ball without effectingthe ability of assembly 100 to be ‘explosion proof’. It may be furtherdesirous for a rear glass 155 and/or protective lens 157 to beconfigured to withstand the impact of the dropped ball without effectingthe ability of assembly 100 to be ‘explosion proof’.

The outer touchscreen 110, the rear element 155, and/or lens 157 may bea durable, hardened, rugged material suitable for the aforementionedspeciation requirements, yet also may be chemical resistant (i.e.,unaffected by various chemical environments). Materials include glass,sapphire glass, carbon fiber, other glass composites, and so forth.

“Explosion proof” as referenced to the assembly 100 may refer to theenclosure 104, when assembled, being able to contain substantially orcompletely any explosion originating therein, as described herein. Theenclosure 104, when assembled, may be configured and able to completelyextinguish a flame generated from therein, such as from an explosion orother similar failure of mobile device 102.

Enclosure 104 (or any applicable (sub)components) may be formed frommilled aluminum satisfying the NEMA 4 standard. However, in otherembodiments enclosure 104 may be formed from other rugged materials. Ofsignificance, the explosion proof assembly 100 may be configured for usein hazardous areas, including: North America Class I, Division 1; ClassI, Division 2; Class II, Division 2 areas; and Class II, Division 1, andnon-US Zone 2 and 1 ATEX and IECEx classified areas. As would beapparent to one of skill in the art, in order to certified by thesebodies for satisfactory use within such a setting, various requirementsmust be met.

Standards pertain to impact, dropping, thermal conditioning (orendurance), thermal shock, temperature requirements, explosive pressure,overpressure, torque test, and so forth.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show assembly 100 in a closed or assembled configurationwhere there is no wiring or other conductor exposed to the surroundingenvironment, while FIG. 1C shows assembly 100 in a breakout view. Whenassembled the assembly 100 may be configured for use in Class I,Division 1; Class I, Division 2; Class II, Division 2 areas; and ClassII, Division 1, and non-US Zone 2 and 1 ATEX and IECEx classified areas.

The assembly 100 may be configured for use in the setting when the upperportion 106 is sealingly coupled with the lowered portion 108, with themobile device 102 disposed therein. ‘Sealingly coupled’ may include theportions 106, 108 being sealingly engaged to certain specification, butsome amount of disconnect is permissible. In this sense ‘sealing’ mayinclude reference to a metal-to-metal seal. However, sealing mayadditionally or alternatively include the use of an o-ring or gasketbetween the portions 106, 108. The gasket (FIG. 2A) may be configured toaid or enhance sealing engagement with the enclosure 104 in theproximity of the portions 106, 108.

Regarding the enclosure 104, the first portion 106 may include a frontface 112. The first portion 106 may include a rear face 114 disposedopposite of front face 112. The rear face 114 may provide a suitablesurface for sealing between the rear face 114 and an outer touchscreen110. The surface for sealing may extend between an inner edge and a rearface inner edge, and therearound the rear face. As would be apparent thefirst portion 106 may thus have its ‘window’ (or opening) 113 closed offby the presence of the outer touchscreen 110.

The outer touchscreen 110 may be a thin, flat piece of rigid and durablematerial suitable to meet various specifications identified herein. Oneof skill in the art would appreciate the outer touchscreen 110 may beconfigured to withstand the aforementioned drop-ball test. Accordingly,the outer touchscreen 110 may have a thickness T1 in the range of about0.5 mm to about 1.2 mm. The thickness T1 may depend on the size of thetouchscreen 110, which may further depend on the particular mobiledevice desired for use. The outer touchscreen 110 may be generally,albeit not limited, rectangular in shape, having dimensions suitable forsealing the window 113. The touchscreen 110 may have one or more regions111 to accommodate various connectivity between enclosure 104 pushdevices and buttons of the mobile device 102.

The second portion 108 may include a second portion inner face 116. Theinner face 116 may be bordered by a second portion outer edge 117. Theremay be an inner chamfered surface extending around the inner face 116.The inner surfaces of the second portion 108 may be machined in a mannerto accommodate to specification a particular mobile device. In thisrespect, chamfered or rounded surfaces may instead be linear.

The second portion 108 may include a second portion rear outer face 118.The rear outer face 118 may be generally flat. Just the same, rear outerface 118 may have an at least one raised surface 145. The use of araised surface may be useful in the event of an underlying raisedsurface of the mobile device 102. For example, raised surface 145 maycoincide with raised mobile device surface 151 (for camera 149). Theunderside 138 proximate to the raised surface may have a protective lens157 sealingly engaged therewith. In this respect, the enclosure 104 maybe configured to maintain its integrity, even if the mobile device 102has one or more raised surfaces associated therewith.

The second portion 108 may thus include multiple separated openings(e.g., one for lens 157 and one for rear element 155). The lens 157 mayhave suitable dimensions (including thickness for occluding (or closingoff) the opening proximate to where the camera 149 would be. Thethickness of the lens may be about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm. The lens 157may have parallel outer edges and/or rounded outer edges.

The second portion 108 may include one or more corners 122, which may beconfigured to coincide and align/mate with any respective corners 123 ofthe first portion 106 (as well as corners of the mobile device 102) (see122 a, d and 123 a, d).

The outer touchscreen 110 may have a planar underside 124 configured forcomplete transmissive mating and engagement with a touchscreen 126 ofthe mobile device 102 via contact point (or interface, layer, etc.). Inthis respect the assembly 100 may provide the synergistic effect ofbeing able to isolate effects of any internal explosion from thesurrounding environment, and yet a user can still access and operate thetouchscreen interface (and buttons 130, 131, 132 on/off—not viewablehere, etc.) of the mobile device 102. One of skill would appreciate thecontact point may be refer to a suitable amount of contact between thesurface of the touchscreen 126 and the outer touchscreen 110, wherebythe mobile device 102 is accessibly operable via interfacing with theouter touchscreen 110.

The front face 112 may have an outer perimeter surface edge 134 that mayextend at around the face 112 and to the rear face 114. The firstportion 106 may include the front face 112, and the rear face 114disposed opposite of the front face 112. The rear face 114 may provide asuitable surface for sealing between the rear face 114 and the outertouchscreen 110. The surface for sealing may extend between an inneredge 136 and the rear face inner edge 137, and therearound the rear face114.

As illustrated, the outer touchscreen 110 may be adhesively andsealingly connected with the first portion 106, such as via a layer ofan adhesive (not viewable here), such as a glue. The glue may be thatwhich is suitable to withstand the hazardous environments discussedherein. The layer of adhesive may provide for a complete perimeter sealbetween the outer touchscreen 110 and the first portion 106. Theadhesive may be suitable to withstand changes of significance intemperature, or chemicals, both from internal and external to theenclosure 104.

The sealing engagement between the outer touchscreen 110 and the firstportion 104 may be beneficial to so as to prevent or at leastsubstantially restrict fluids or particles (e.g., dust, particulates,fibers, etc.) from entering or exiting the enclosure 104 when theassembly 100 is in its assembled configuration (e.g., FIG. 1A).

The first portion 106 may similarly have a first dissipation wall 185.In the event of any remnant flame moving past the first dissipation wall185, the flame will be resisted from passing any further beyond a seconddissipation wall 186 (of second portion 108). As a further measure ofadded redundancy, the first portion 106 may have a third dissipationwall 187. One of skill would appreciate the second portion 108 may havea grooved surface or region to accommodate mating with the firstdissipation wall and the third dissipation wall. And similarly the firstportion 106 may have a grooved surface or region to accommodate matingwith the second dissipation wall 186. The first dissipation wall 185 maybe the first (lateral) contact point of any flame resulting from failureof the mobile device 102.

Much like energy in an ocean wave may be dissipated by a barrier (orwall), so may energy from an explosion. One of skill in the art wouldrecognize the structure of a first dissipation wall as being configuredand suitable to do such a thing. One of skill would first appreciatethat a flame is a form of visible and/or thermal energy that may bedissipated.

The inner face of the second portion 108 may trail off into a surfaceforming a second dissipation wall 186, which may extend outward andupward from inner edge 120, including in an arcuate manner.

The surface edge 134 of the first portion 106 may be flat, planar,rounded, or any suitable shape, and is not meant to be limited. Thesurface edge 134 may have one or more bumper mating holes 143, whereby arespective bumper 142 may be coupled therewith (via bumper couplers 144,which may be screws). Accordingly, one or more bumpers 142 may becoupled to the enclosure 104.

The bumper 142 may be of a material suitable for providing extraprotection to the mobile device 102, particularly for shock absorptionin the case of inadvertent dropping of the assembly 100. Although notlimited, the bumper 142 may be made of rubber, plastic, silicone, orother comparable material. Moreover, although the Figures may illustrateone or more corner bumpers, the bumper 142 could have other shapes,including being disposed around the entire perimeter (or in addition oralternatively to other portions) of the assembled enclosure 104.

Of significance, the mating faces—namely faces 114, 116 (includingrespective undulations, edges, and so forth) and inner surfaces(including respective undulations, edges, and so forth)—may beconfigured for sealing engagement therebetween. The sealing engagementmay be, or at least partially include, metal-to-metal. In order tofacilitate the flame extinguishing characteristic of the enclosure 104,it is desirous to have significantly reduced separation between thecorresponding mating surfaces of the first portion 106 and the secondportion 108.

Any or both of the first portion 106 and the second portion 108 may bemade from CNC machining.

In this respect, when the first portion 106 and the second portion 108are coupled together, the distance between any respective and proximatesurface of the portions 106, 108 may be less than about 0.05 inches. Inaspects, the gap at any particular proximate contact point may be in therange of about 0.01 inches to about 0.05 inches. The use of an extremelytight or close tolerance seal around the portions 106, 108 is ofsignificance in meeting specification for a certified explosion proofassembly.

The first portion 106 may have one or more first mating apertures 146.The first mating apertures 146 may be configured for receivingrespective fasteners 148. In aspects, the fasteners 148 may bescrew-type fasteners. As a non-limiting example, the fasteners 148 maybe A2 Stainless M5×0.8×8 mm Torx head screws. The fasteners 148 may beinsertable through respective second portion apertures 150. Althoughshown as being insertable through the second portion 108 and threadinglyinto apertures of the first portion 106, this configuration could justas well be reversed.

Although not limited to any particular arrangement or number, there maybe sufficient placement and use of fasteners 148 to promote or otherwisecontribute to the desired tolerance fit between the first portion 106and the second portion 108. The fasteners 148 may be tightened to afastener torque value in the range of about 3 N·m to about 8 N·m. Inaspects, the fastener torque value may be at least 5 N·m. The fastenertorque value may be in the range of about 5 N·m to about 6 N·m.

Mobile device 102 may have a front face 152 that may further include afront outer edge 154, as well as the operable touch screen 126. Themobile device 102 may include a rear face that may be defined by a rearouter edge (not viewable here). There may be a chamfered surface or edge156, which may extend between the outer edge 154 and the rear outeredge. In aspects, there may be one or more chamfered corners.

The mobile device 102 may include a first button 130 (which may be a‘home’ button or switch as would be understood by one of skill in theart) disposed on the front face 152. There may be other buttons thatprovide various functionality based on user interaction, such as a setof second buttons 131 (e.g., volume up/down), and a third button 132(which may be an ‘on/off’ button or switch as would be understood by oneof skill in the art). The buttons 130, 131, 132 may be disposed onchamfered surface 156, or at any position therearound mobile device 102.In accordance with embodiments herein the first button 130, secondbutton(s) 131, and the third button 132 may be completely accessible andactuatable when the portions 106, 108 are coupled together.

The mobile device 102 may include a camera 149, understood to include orbe associated with to include various lenses and related circuitry,software, memory, etc. For example, there may be a protective cameralens 158 of camera 149 (associated with respective camera circuitry),which may be disposed on the rear face 159. In accordance withembodiments herein the camera function of the mobile device 102,including being able to take pictures via lens 158, may be completelyaccessible and actuatable when the portions 106, 108 are coupledtogether. The lens 158 may align with outer lens window 157 of secondportion 108. The outer lens window 157 may be configured to meet orexceed specification for the explosion proof assembly 100.

The mobile device 102 may include an input connector 103. The inputconnector may be configured to allow for data and/or electrical powertransfer between mobile device 102 and any external electrical device,such as a power charger (including respective cord and connector—notshown here). In accordance with embodiments herein the input connectormay be completely isolated from the external environment of the assembly100 when the portions 106, 108 are coupled together. Still, the inputconnector may be completely accessible when the portions 106, 108 arecoupled together.

The difference in isolation or accessibility to the input connector maybe as a result of the presence of an isolator member (or just‘isolator’) 107, which may be a plug, a screw, and so forth. In thisrespect the assembled enclosure 104 may provide the ability for a userto gain access to the input connector 103 without having to resort todisassembly.

As shown here, the isolator 107 may be of suitable size andconfiguration for sealing engagement into isolator receptacle 160. Inembodiments, the isolator 107 may be configured for quick connect anddisconnect from the first portion 106, whereby prompt access to inputconnector 102 may occur. Just the same, the isolator 107 may be fastenedsecurely with the first portion 106 via one or more fasteners 196. Theisolator 107 may be configured with one or more apertures 161 alignableto receptacles 162 within the first portion 106. The receptacles 162need not extend all the way through the first portion 106. Thereceptacles 162 may be configured for threaded engagement with fasteners196.

The isolator 107 may have a raised head configured for easy tool access,such as via wrench, allen wrench, or other type of feature suitable fora tool to provide the requisite torque value to the tightened isolator107. In other embodiments, the enclosure 104 may have a non-torqueconfiguration. For example, the isolator 107 (or respective fasteners)may be self-locking.

The mobile device 102 may have one or more speakers and/or microphones(associated with respective circuitry and memory) 105. Uniquely andadvantageously the enclosure 104 may be configured with a sound-passingmaterial 163 that may be positioned proximately to the speakers 105 in amanner whereby sound energy may be passed therethrough, but gases arenot. In this respect, the assembly 100 may be used for communicationpurposes with every little impediment to vocal or sound transmission tothe microphone.

Accordingly, in embodiments, one or more material receptacles 164 may beformed or machined, for example, into the side 134, front face 112, andso forth of the first portion 106, or vice versa re the second portion108. There may be an at least one receptacle 164. As shown here, theremay be two receptacles 164—one proximate to each respectivespeaker/microphone section 105. There may be an at least one receptacle164 proximate to where a user's ear would be and/or an least one (oranother one) receptacle 164 proximate to where a user's mouth would be.

As one of skill would appreciate, the sound-passing material 163 may beconfigured for snuggly residing within the receptacle, and being held inplace by a respective cover plate 167. The cover plate 167 may besecurely fastened to the first portion 106 via one or more fasteners196. The fasteners 196 may be inserted through cover plate apertures 166and into fastener receptacles 165. The receptacles 165 may be configuredfor threading engagement with fasteners 196. The receptacles 165 neednot extend all the way through the side 134 of the first portion 106.The material receptacles may have respective sound passageways 168.

The sound-passing material 163 is not limited to any particular shape,and may in some sense be referred to as a ‘plug’ or ‘sound plug’. Inaspects, the material or plug 163 may be rectangular prism in nature.The plug 163 may be about 1 mm to about 3 mm in depth, about 1 mm toabout 3 mm in width (or height), and about 5 mm to about 10 mm inlength. However, the dimensions of the plug 163 need only be that to fitwithin receptacle(s) 164. The plug 163 may allow gaseous material topass therethrough, such as air, but may be completely impermeable to aflame. As such, any flame internal to the enclosure 104 will not breach.

The plug material 163 may be a stainless steel sintered material. Inthis respect, the material is made by a welding process of smallparticles of stainless steel powder by applying heat below the meltingpoint, then machined to a desired shape. The plug 163 may have aporosity of between about 10 microns to 30 microns.

In the case of the new iPhone 8 and later versions, and comparablealternatives, the enclosure 104 may include a rear element or glass 155.The use of the rear element 155 may aid to prevent or mitigateinterference with any electromagnetic “wireless” rechargingfunctionality of the mobile device 102. Accordingly, the second portion108 may have an opening 153 configured to receive the rear element 155.

The rear window element may be comparable in characteristics to that ofthe outer touchscreen 110; however, rear element 155 and outertouchscreen 110 need not be the same. For example, both may beconfigured to meet specification of the ‘ball drop’ test discussedherein, but may be made of different materials. In this respect, outertouchscreen 110 may be configured for signal transmissivity related tohuman touch, whereas rear element 155 may be configured to be inductiveto wireless recharging (e.g., the electrical recharge signal passthrough the rear element 155, whereas a solid backing of second portion208—especially metallic—may not pass the signal).

The assembly 100 may be configured for use in the setting when the upperportion 106 is sealingly coupled with the lowered portion 108, with themobile device 102 disposed therein. Although not limited, the rearelement 155 may be adhesively and sealingly connected with the secondportion 108, such as via a layer of an adhesive (not viewable here). Thelayer of adhesive may provide for a complete perimeter seal between therear element 155 and the second portion 108. The adhesive may besuitable to withstand changes of significance in temperature, orchemicals, both from internal and external to the enclosure 104.

The enclosure 104 may have various other points of isolation andaccessibility to accommodate ‘explosion proof’ capability, yet at thesame time button interactability with the mobile device 102.

For example, the first portion 106 may have a first button isolationregion 190. The region 185 may be configured as a recess within thefirst portion 106, which may also be on the outer edge or side 134. Theregion 190 may have a first set of holes 191 a fully through the firstportion 106 in order to accommodate passage of push pins 192. Althoughshown here in a quasi-parallel elliptical shape, the shape of therecessed region 190 is not meant to be limited.

A first pliable insert 193 may be configured to fit and set within(including entirely) in the region 190. The pliable insert 193 may beany suitable durable material, such as rubber. The pliable insert 193may have one or more protruding nubs 194 configured to extend outward ofthe enclosure 104 once cover plate 195 is installed thereon. Any pliableinsert of the disclosure may be made of rubber or rubber-like material.

In assembly, the end 192 b of push pin 190 will reside within anunderside portion of protruding nub 194, such that pushing on protrudingnub 194 will result in depression of the other end of the pin 192against the respective button(s) 131.

The cover plate 195 may be coupled to the first portion 106 via one ormore plate fasteners (such as screws) 196. The fasteners 196 may passthrough aligned apertures of the cover plate and the pliable insert 193,and into receptacles 191 b. Notably, receptacles 191 b need not extendall the way through the portion 106. Receptacles 191 b may be threadedfor threaded engagement with fasteners 196.

To any extent other buttons of the mobile device 102 may need to beaccessible, there may be other comparable structures. Thus, there may bea second recessed region (not viewable here). The region may beconfigured as a recess within the first portion 106, which may also beon the outer edge or side 134. The region may have a first set of holes(or hole) 198 a fully through the first portion 106 in order toaccommodate passage of a push pin(s) 197. Although shown here in aquasi-parallel elliptical shape, the shape of the recessed region is notmeant to be limited.

A second pliable insert 193 a may be configured to fit and set within(including entirely) in the second region. The pliable insert 193 a maybe any suitable durable material, such as rubber. The pliable insert 193a may have one or more protruding nubs (not viewable here) configured toextend outward of the enclosure 104 once cover plate 195 a is installedthereon.

In assembly, the end 197 b of push pin 197 will reside within anunderside portion 194 a of protruding nub, such that pushing on theprotruding nub will result in depression of the other end of the pin 192against the respective button(s) 132.

The cover plate 195 a may be coupled to the first portion 106 via one ormore plate fasteners (such as screws) 196. The fasteners 196 may passthrough aligned apertures of the cover plate and the second pliableinsert 193 a, and into receptacles (not viewable here). Notably, thefastener receptacles need not extend all the way through the portion106. Receptacles may be threaded for threaded engagement with fasteners196.

In embodiments, mobile device 102 may have other button orientation,such as on the front side 152 or rear side 159. As shown, the mobiledevice 102 may have a ‘Home’ button 130. Thus, the assembly 104 maycomparably be configured to provide interactability thereto. Forexample, the first portion may have a lateral extension structure orsection 129. The section 129 may be configured with a (third) recessedregion 109.

The region 109 may be configured as a recess within the first portion106 (or extension section 129), which may also be on or proximatelyassociated with the top side 112. The region may have a first set ofholes (or hole) 121 a fully through the first section 129 in order toaccommodate passage of a push pin(s) 101. Although shown here in arounded quadrilateral shape, the shape of the recessed region is notmeant to be limited.

A third pliable insert 135 may be configured to fit and set within(including entirely) in the region 109. The pliable insert 135 may beany suitable durable material, such as rubber. The pliable insert 135may have one or more protruding nubs 125 configured to extend outward ofthe enclosure 104 once cover plate 133 is installed thereon.

In assembly, the end 101 b of push pin 101 will reside within anunderside portion of protruding nub 125, such that pushing on theprotruding nub will result in depression of the other end 101 a of thepin 101 against the respective button 130.

The cover plate 133 may be coupled to the first portion 106 via one ormore plate fasteners (such as screws) 196. The fasteners 196 may passthrough aligned apertures 121 b, c of the cover plate 133 and thepliable insert 135, respectively, and into receptacles 127. Notably, thefastener receptacles 127 need not extend all the way through the portion106 (or section 129). Accordingly, the extension section 129 may beconfigured with a desirable thickness or depth to accommodate asufficient amount of length of the fasteners 196. Receptacles 127 may bethreaded for threaded engagement with fasteners 196.

Although described as in the first portion 106, embodiments hereinprovide for modification of the portions 106, 108 to the point that thesecond portion may be configured comparably and vice versa.

In this respect the assembled enclosure 100 may provide the ability fora user to gain access to the buttons of the mobile device without havingto resort to disassembly, although not meant to be limited to anyparticular type of isolation/access configuration.

Referring briefly to FIGS. 5A and 5B together, a frontward view of afirst portion having another or alternative extension and a frontwardview of a touchscreen with a recessed region, in accordance withembodiments herein, are shown.

The assembly 100 may include either of the first portion 106 or secondportion 108 having an additional or alternative extension 129 a. In asimilar respect, the outer touchscreen 110 may include a regions 111 ato accommodate various connectivity between enclosure 104 push devicesand buttons of the mobile device 102 and/or one or more speakers and/ormicrophones (associated with respective circuitry and memory). Asmentioned herein, the assembly 100 may be used for communicationpurposes with every little impediment to vocal or sound transmission tothe microphone.

The extension 129 a may include a gap or hole 129 b. The gap/hole 129 bmay provide suitable clearance whereby an ambient light sensor and/orproximity sensor of the mobile device (not shown here) are unimpeded bythe enclosure. Thus, the depth of the gap/hole 129 b may extend throughthe thickness of the extension 129 a.

While the region 111 a may be comparable to that of region 111, theregion 111 a need not exceed all the way through the thickness of theouter touchscreen 110, and thus may be contemplated as being thinned orrecessed. Thinning of the region 111 a may promote improved soundperformance from the speaker to a user's ear (i.e., the less glassthickness, the less impediment to sound waves). Just the same, inembodiments, region 111 may be thinned and/or region 111 a may exceedthrough the thickness.

To further aid sound transmission, the first portion 106 or secondportion (not shown here) may include yet another material receptacles(not viewable here) formed or machined thereinto (like that of FIG. 1D).The receptacle may be proximate to any respective speaker/microphonesection understood to be disposed tantamount to what would be proximateto a user's ear. As one of skill would appreciate, the sound-passingmaterial 163 may be configured for snuggly residing within thereceptacle, and being held in place by a respective cover plate 167 a.The cover plate 167 a may be securely fastened one or more fasteners196. The fasteners 196 may be inserted through cover plate apertures andinto fastener receptacles. The receptacles may be configured forthreading engagement with fasteners. The receptacles need not extend allthe way through the first portion 106. The material receptacles may haverespective sound passageways (not viewable here). The sound-passingmaterial (not viewable here) may be like that as described herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C together, a lateralcross-sectional view of an explosion proof assembly, a zoom-incross-sectional view of sealing engagement of the explosion proofassembly, and a zoom-in cross-sectional view of a flame path with aflame therein of the explosion proof assembly, in accordance withembodiments disclosed herein, are shown.

As should be apparent, FIGS. 2A-2C may not be to scale. Instead, theFigures are intended to illustrate that upon zoom-in inspection, variouspassageways, gaps, and interstices may be present when the enclosure isassembled together (i.e., first portion 206 and second portion 208 arecoupled together). For example, there may be a gap 283 having a distanceof less than about 0.04 inches (˜1000 microns) between various contactpoints of the first portion 206 and the second portion 208.

Although theoretically this could result in passage of, for example,gaseous material, air, and so forth, one of the key attributes of theassembly 200 is the ability to dissipate a flame. At the same time, themobile device 202 may be interacted with (for example, pin 297 may bedepressed external to an outer side 234, and subsequently activating abutton 232 of the mobile device.

Regarding the assembly 200, the first portion 206 may include a frontface 212. The first portion 206 may include a rear face or backside 214disposed opposite of front face 212. The rear face 214 may provide asuitable surface 215 for sealing between the first portion 206 and anouter touchscreen 210. The surface for sealing 215 may extend between aninner edge 236 and a rear face inner edge 237, and therearound the rearface surface 215.

The outer touchscreen 210 may be adhesively and sealingly connected withthe first portion 206, such as via a layer of an adhesive 284. The layerof adhesive 284 may provide for a complete perimeter seal between theouter touchscreen 210 and the first portion 206. The adhesive may besuitable to withstand changes of significance in temperature, orchemicals, both from internal and external to the enclosure 204.

The sealing engagement between the outer touchscreen 210 and the firstportion 206 may be beneficial to so as to prevent or at leastsubstantially restrict fluids or particles (e.g., dust, particulates,fibers, etc.) from entering or exiting the enclosure 204 when theassembly 200 is in its assembled configuration (e.g., FIG. 1A). Thesealing may further prevent any flame path between portion 206 and theouter touchscreen 210.

The second portion 208 may include a second portion inner face 216. Theinner face 216 may be bordered by a second portion outer edge 217. Thesecond portion 208 may include the second portion rear outer face 218.The rear outer face 218 may be generally flat. The inner face 216 maytrail off into a surface forming the second dissipation wall 286, whichmay extend outward and upward from edge surface 220, including in anarcuate or shoulder-edged manner, into proximate engagement with thefirst portion 206. As shown, the first dissipation wall 285 may be thefirst (lateral) contact point of any flame 288 resulting from failure ofthe mobile device 202.

The second portion 208 may similarly have a second dissipation wall 286.In the event of any remnant flame 288 moving past the first dissipationwall 285, the flame 288 will be resisted from passing any further beyondthe second dissipation wall 286. Still, as a further measure of addedredundancy, the first portion may have a third dissipation wall 287. Oneof skill would appreciate the second portion 208 may have a groovedsurface or region to accommodate mating with the first dissipation wall285 and the third dissipation wall 287. And similarly the first portion206 may have a grooved surface or region to accommodate mating with thesecond dissipation wall 286. To the naked eye the first portion 206 andsecond portion 208 may fit seamlessly together.

The first portion 206 and the second portion 206 may be configured forassembly together whereby a flame extinguishing (or quenching) path 289may be formed. The extinguishing path 289 may be likened to a path ofleast resistance. That is, in the event of an explosion within theenclosure 204, the resultant flame 288 travels therein. Like any joint,where the first portion 206 and second 208 are coupled together may bethe path of flame travel.

To meet various standards, such as the more stringent requirements forClass 1 Div I or Zone 1, the enclosure 204 is required to be able towithstand the effects of an internal combustion or explosion that mayproduce a flame, which could in turn be an ignition source for variousmaterials that may be associated with the Class 1 Div I or Zone 1.

It has been discovered that the flame 288 (or its energy) may beextinguished or otherwise dissipated by the presence of one or moreflame barriers or dissipation walls 285, 286, 287.

This includes in the event a rear glass 255 is utilized. Althoughreferred to as ‘glass’, other non-glass materials may be used. Asmentioned herein, new mobile devices may be configured with inductive(wireless) (re)chargability to alleviate the need to plug in a powercord. Thus, the rear glass 255 may be any material suitable toaccommodate induction, yet sufficient to meet requirements andspecifications described herein for explosion proofing. To accommodate,the enclosure may include the rear glass 255 sealingly engaged with thesecond portion 208. Thus, the second portion 208 may have an opening 253sealed/closed off by the presence of the rear glass (analogous toopening 113 and outer touchscreen 110), including use of a layer ofsealing material between glass 255 and lip or edge 270.

Sealing may be aided by the use of gasket 228, which may be disposed ina gasket groove 228 a formed in either or both of the first portion 206and the second portion 208.

One of skill would appreciate a similar sealing ability in the eventadditional glass or lens (FIG. 1C, 157) may be needed for raised surface245.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C together, a top view of ahand-held accessory releasably coupled to a rear side of an explosionproof assembly, a top view of the hand-held accessory of FIG. 3A, and aside view of a user holding the explosion proof assembly of FIG. 3A,respectively, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, areshown.

While it need not be exactly the same, an assembly 300 may be like thatof assembly 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C, etc., and components thereof may beduplicate or analogous. Thus, only a brief discussion of the assembly300 is provided, recognizing that differences, if any, would bediscernable by one of skill in the art, especially in view of thepresent disclosure.

As illustrated, explosion proof assembly 300 may include a mobile device(not shown here) associated with a flame extinguishing enclosure 304.The enclosure 304 may include a first or upper portion 306 configuredfor releasable coupling to a second or lower portion 308. In aspects,the mobile device 302 may be an iPad® or iPhone® produced by Apple,Inc.,

The assembly 300 may be configured for use in the setting when the upperportion 306 is sealingly coupled with the lowered portion 308, with themobile device disposed therein. ‘Sealingly coupled’ may include theportions 306, 308 being sealingly engaged to certain specification, butsome amount of disconnect is permissible. In this sense ‘sealing’ mayrefer to or include a metal-to-metal seal.

To aid in use of the assembly 300, various accessories may be utilized,including those that provide additional grip, shock absorption,hand-holding, and the like. As shown, an attachable hand-holdingaccessory 360 may be coupled to the assembly, such as to the rear side318 of the second portion 308.

Although not limited to any particular hand-holding accessoryconfiguration (and material selection thereof), the accessory 360 may bemade of a nylon-based material.

The accessory 360 may have an attachment backing 362, which may be ofminimal thickness and generally polygonal in shape. The backing 362 maybe configured for releasable attachment to the rear face 318. In thisrespect, the backing 362 may have one or more apertures (not viewablehere) for receiving a respective attachment fastener 364 therethrough.As shown, there may be a fastener 364 inserted through four cornerapertures. Accordingly, the second portion 308 may also have receptacles(not viewable here) that align with the apertures, to which the fastener364 may be securely positioned therein. In aspects, the fasteners 364may be screwed into the second portion 308.

It may be desirous to attach and detach the accessory 360 without havingto jeopardize the integrity of the assembled enclosure 304. Thus, thereceptacles need not have a depth that extends all the way through thethickness of the second portion 308. Accordingly, the second portion 308may have various raised faces 366 to accommodate and appreciable amountof material depth to which the fastener 364 may extend.

In other aspects, it may be desirous to disassemble the enclosure 304without removing the accessory 360. Thus, the accessory 360 may beshaped in a manner to provide access to enclosure fasteners 340. Asshown, the accessory 360 may have one or more arcuate segments 368.

The accessory 360 may have a hand hold strap 370. The strap 370 may bemovably, yet fixedly connected at strap attachment point 372. While notmeant to be limited to any particular hand hold configuration, the handhold strap 370 may be of sufficient length for inserting into an eyelet374, and then wrapping back over for self-securing to itself, such asvia a Velcro layer (e.g., a mini-hook/loop) 376. The layer 376 may be ofsuitable size to provide adjustment for accommodation of hands ofvarious sizes, as would be apparent to one of skill in the art.

As shown in FIG. 3C, a user 378 can slide his/her hand into thehand-insertion region 380. Using the hand on the back of the enclosure304 may provide extra stability as the user 378 interfaces with themobile device via the outer touchscreen.

For further convenience, a carrying handle 382 may be coupled to theenclosure 304. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the handle 382 may be coupledto the second portion 308 via handle couplers 384 on each side of thehandle.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B together, a top view of a magneticattachment accessory releasably coupled to a rear side of an explosionproof assembly and a side view of the explosion proof assembly of FIG.4B while magnetically attached to a surface, respectively, in accordancewith embodiments disclosed herein, are shown.

While it need not be exactly the same, an assembly 400 may be like thatof any assembly disclosed herein, and components thereof may beduplicate or analogous. Thus, only a brief discussion of the assembly400 is provided, recognizing that differences, if any, would bediscernable by one of skill in the art, especially in view of thepresent disclosure.

As illustrated, explosion proof assembly 400 may include a mobile device(not shown here) associated with a flame extinguishing enclosure 404.The enclosure 404 may include a first or upper portion 406 configuredfor releasable coupling to a second or lower portion 408.

To aid in use of the assembly 400, various accessories may be utilized,including those that provide additional grip, shock absorption,hand-holding, and the like. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, magnetic attachmentaccessory 460 may be coupled to the assembly, such as to the rear side418 of the second portion 408.

Although not limited to any particular accessory configuration (andmaterial selection thereof), the accessory 460 may include variousmagnetic and non-magnetic components coupled together. As shown in theFigures, the accessory 460 may include at least on non-magnetic supportbar 467 coupled to raised faces 466. The support bar 467 may have agenerally rectangular prism shape

The backing support bar(s) 467 may be configured for releasableattachment to the rear face 418. In this respect, the support bar 467may have one or more apertures (partially viewable here) for receiving arespective attachment fastener 464 therethrough. As shown, there may bea fastener 464 inserted through apertures on each end of the supportbar(s) 467. Accordingly, the second portion 408 may also havereceptacles (not viewable here) that align with the apertures, to whichthe fastener 464 may be securely positioned therein. In aspects, thefasteners 464 may be screwed into the second portion 406.

Although a magnet 469 may be directly coupled to the rear face 418, theFigures show the magnet 469 coupled onto the support bar 467. Inaspects, there may be a first magnet on one end of the support bar 467,and a second magnet disposed on the opposite end of the support bar. Another side of second portion 408 may have a similar support bar/magnetconfiguration (e.g., a support bar 467 on each side, and a magnet 469 oneach end of the respective support bar). The magnet 469 may be attachedvia a magnet fastener 461.

It may be desirous to attach and detach the accessory 460 without havingthe jeopardize the integrity of the assembled enclosure 404. Thus, thereceptacles need not have a depth that extends all the way through thethickness of the second portion 408. Accordingly, the second portion 408may have various raised faces 466 to accommodate and appreciable amountof material depth to which the fastener 464 may extend and engagetherein. As shown the presence of the raised faces 466 may providesuitable clearance 463 so that the support bar 467 does not come intoinadvertent contact with enclosure fasteners 440.

As shown in FIG. 4B, a user may magnetically attach the assembly 400 toa suitable surface, which may provide extra stability as the userinterfaces with the mobile device via outer touchscreen 410. Moreover,the user is now relieved of having to use one hand to hold the assembly400.

For further convenience, a carrying handle 482 may be coupled to theenclosure 404. The handle 482 may be coupled to the second portion 408via handle couplers 4529 on each side of the handle.

Embodiments herein provide for a method of forming an explosion proofassembly that generally includes placing or disposing a mobile devicewithin an enclosure comprising a first portion sealingly engaged with asecond portion. Such an assembly may be suitable to completely satisfyrequirements of Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 hazardousarea classifications. Also, an operable touchscreen of a mobile devicemay be safely interfaced and actuated within Class I, Division 2 andClass II, Division 2 hazardous areas without violating the safetyrequirements of these areas.

Advantages

Previously operators/users would not be allowed to carry an electronicmobile device with them into hazardous areas (C1D2/Zone2/Zone2/Zone1) asthere was no guaranty these devices will not create a spark (i.e.,explosion). So they were using pen and paper to do their job(inspection, maintenance, turn arounds, etc.).

Embodiments of the disclosure advantageously provide for an explosionproof assembly that may allow operators/users to now carry their mobiledevices within an explosion proof assembly of the disclosure. Users cannow advantageously and beneficially use customized Apps, take pictures,take videos, and collaborate with their peers, such via Skype or otherApps. Their work is a lot more efficient and is still safe.

While embodiments of the disclosure have been shown and described,modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the spirit and teachings of the disclosure. Theembodiments described herein are exemplary only, and are not intended tobe limiting. Many variations and modifications of the disclosurepresented herein are possible and are within the scope of thedisclosure. Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly stated,such express ranges or limitations should be understood to includeiterative ranges or limitations of like magnitude falling within theexpressly stated ranges or limitations. The use of the term “optionally”with respect to any element of a claim is intended to mean that thesubject element is required, or alternatively, is not required. Bothalternatives are intended to be within the scope of any claim. Use ofbroader terms such as comprises, includes, having, etc. should beunderstood to provide support for narrower terms such as consisting of,consisting essentially of, comprised substantially of, and the like.

Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the descriptionset out above but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scopeincluding all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each andevery claim is incorporated into the specification as an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. Thus, the claims are a further description andare an addition to the preferred embodiments of the disclosure. Theinclusion or discussion of a reference is not an admission that it isprior art to the present disclosure, especially any reference that mayhave a publication date after the priority date of this application. Thedisclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications citedherein are hereby incorporated by reference, to the extent they providebackground knowledge; or exemplary, procedural or other detailssupplementary to those set forth herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An explosion proof assembly comprising: a firstportion comprising: a first portion rear face; a first portion outeredge; a first portion inner edge; a first dissipation wall; an isolatorreceptacle; at least one pin housing receptacle; a corresponding pinmovingly disposed through the at least one pin housing receptacle; aplurality of first mating apertures; a sound material receptacle; and awindow; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of thefirst portion rear face, and resultantly occluding the window; a secondportion comprising: a second portion inner surface defined by a secondportion inner edge that transitions into a second dissipation wall; asecond portion shoulder; and a second portion window; a plurality ofsecond mating apertures; and a rear element adhesively sealed around aperimeter of the second portion shoulder, and resultantly occluding thesecond portion window; a mobile device disposed within the first portionand the second portion, the mobile device being operable via a mobiledevice touchscreen, and further comprising an at least onespeaker/microphone and an at least one button; a sound material disposedwithin the sound material receptacle proximately to the at least onespeaker/microphone; a cover plate coupled with the first portionproximate to the sound material receptacle; wherein upon thecorresponding pin is aligned with the at least one button wherebydepressing of the corresponding pin results in depressing thecorresponding button, wherein the first portion and the second portionare releasably coupled to each other to form an enclosure, wherein uponassembly the outer touchscreen is engaged with and transmissive to themobile device touchscreen, wherein the second dissipation wall isadjacent to the first dissipation wall, wherein the rear element isinductive to an electrical charge for recharging the mobile device,wherein the mobile device is configured for electromagnetic wirelessrecharging, wherein the sound material is in a rectangular prism shape,wherein the sound material is made of stainless steel sintered material,and wherein the sound material comprises a porosity of between about 10microns to 30 microns.
 2. The explosion proof assembly of claim 1,wherein the mobile device comprises an input connector, wherein anisolator member is disposed within the isolator receptacle, wherein theouter touchscreen comprises a recessed region having a reduced thicknesscompared to the rest of the outer touchscreen, and wherein the firstportion comprises an extension configured to engage the recessed region.3. The explosion proof assembly of claim 1, wherein the mobile device isconfigured for taking photos via a camera lens, wherein the secondportion comprises a lens window, and wherein upon assembly the cameralens and the lens window are aligned.
 4. The explosion proof assembly ofclaim 1, the assembly further comprising a second sound materialreceptacle and a second sound material disposed therein, wherein an atleast one of a depth, a length, or a width of the rectangular shape isin a range of greater than 2 millimeters to no more than 10 millimeters.5. The explosion proof assembly of claim 1, the assembly furthercomprising a second sound material receptacle and a second soundmaterial disposed therein, wherein the mobile device is configured fortaking photos via a camera lens, wherein the second portion comprises alens window, and wherein upon assembly the camera lens and the lenswindow are aligned, wherein the second sound material also has a secondmaterial rectangular prism shape.
 6. The explosion proof assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the mobile device comprises an input connector, whereinan isolator member is disposed within the isolator receptacle, whereinthe mobile device is configured for taking photos via a camera lens,wherein the second portion comprises a lens window, and wherein uponassembly the camera lens and the lens window are aligned.
 7. Theexplosion proof assembly of claim 1, wherein the mobile device comprisesan input connector, wherein an isolator member is disposed within theisolator receptacle, wherein the mobile device is configured for takingphotos via a camera lens, wherein the second portion comprises a lenswindow, wherein the sound material is permeable to air, but impermeableto a flame, and wherein upon assembly the camera lens and the lenswindow are aligned.
 8. The explosion proof assembly of claim 1, whereinthe outer touchscreen comprises a recessed region having a reducedthickness compared to the rest of the outer touchscreen.
 9. Theexplosion proof assembly of claim 8, wherein the first portion comprisesan extension configured to engage the recessed region.
 10. The explosionproof assembly of claim 9, wherein the sound material comprises sinteredmetal made from a welding process.
 11. An explosion proof assemblycomprising: a first portion comprising: a first portion rear face; afirst portion outer edge; a first portion inner edge; at least one pinhousing receptacle; a corresponding pin movingly disposed through the atleast one pin housing receptacle; a sound material receptacle; and awindow; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of thefirst portion rear face, and resultantly occluding the window; a secondportion comprising: a second portion inner surface; a second portionshoulder; a second portion window; and a rear element adhesively sealedaround a perimeter of the second portion shoulder, and resultantlyoccluding the second portion window; a mobile device disposed within thefirst portion and the second portion, the mobile device being operablevia a mobile device touchscreen, and further comprising an at least onespeaker/microphone and an at least one button; a sound material disposedwithin the sound material receptacle proximately to the at least onespeaker/microphone; a cover plate coupled with the first portionproximate to the sound material receptacle; wherein upon thecorresponding pin is aligned with the at least one button wherebydepressing of the corresponding pin results in depressing thecorresponding button, wherein the first portion and the second portionare releasably coupled to each other to form an enclosure, wherein uponassembly the outer touchscreen is engaged with and transmissive to themobile device touchscreen, wherein the rear element is inductive to anelectrical charge for recharging the mobile device, wherein the soundmaterial comprises a porosity of between about 10 microns to 30 microns,wherein the sound material is permeable to air, but impermeable to aflame, and wherein the mobile device is configured for electromagneticwireless recharging.
 12. The explosion proof assembly of claim 11,wherein the mobile device comprises an input connector, wherein anisolator member is disposed within the isolator receptacle, and whereinthe sound material comprises sintered metal made from a welding process.13. The explosion proof assembly of claim 12, wherein the mobile deviceis configured for taking photos via a camera lens, wherein the secondportion comprises a lens window, and wherein upon assembly the cameralens and the lens window are aligned.
 14. The explosion proof assemblyof claim 13, the assembly further comprising a second sound materialreceptacle and a second sound material disposed therein, wherein thesound material and the second sound material are plugs in a rectangularprism shape, either or both of which have an at least one of a depth, alength, or a width in a range of greater than 2 millimeters to no morethan 10 millimeters, and wherein the sound material and the second soundmaterial each comprise stainless steel sintered material.
 15. Anexplosion proof assembly comprising: a first portion comprising: a firstportion rear face; at least one pin housing receptacle; a correspondingpin movingly disposed through the at least one pin housing receptacle; asound material receptacle; and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesivelysealed around a perimeter of the first portion rear face, andresultantly occluding the window; a second portion comprising: a secondportion inner surface; a second portion shoulder; a second portionwindow; and a rear element adhesively sealed around a perimeter of thesecond portion shoulder, and resultantly occluding the second portionwindow; a mobile device disposed within the first portion and the secondportion, the mobile device being operable via a mobile devicetouchscreen, and further comprising an at least one speaker/microphoneand an at least one button; a sound material disposed within the soundmaterial receptacle proximately to the at least one speaker/microphone;a cover plate coupled with the first portion proximate to the soundmaterial receptacle; wherein upon the corresponding pin is aligned withthe at least one button whereby depressing of the corresponding pinresults in depressing the corresponding button, wherein the firstportion and the second portion are releasably coupled to each other toform an enclosure, wherein upon assembly the outer touchscreen isengaged with and transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen, whereinthe rear element is inductive to an electrical charge for recharging themobile device, wherein the sound material comprises a porosity ofbetween about 10 microns to 30 microns, wherein the sound material ispermeable to air, but impermeable to a flame, and wherein the mobiledevice is configured for electromagnetic wireless recharging.
 16. Theexplosion proof assembly of claim 15, wherein the mobile devicecomprises an input connector, wherein an isolator member is disposedwithin the isolator receptacle, and wherein the sound material comprisessintered metal made from a welding process.
 17. The explosion proofassembly of claim 16, wherein the mobile device is configured for takingphotos via a camera lens, wherein the second portion comprises a lenswindow, and wherein upon assembly the camera lens and the lens windoware aligned.
 18. The explosion proof assembly of claim 17, the assemblyfurther comprising a second sound material receptacle and a second soundmaterial disposed therein, and wherein the sound material and the secondsound material are plugs in a rectangular prism shape wherein the outertouchscreen comprises a recessed region having a reduced thicknesscompared to the rest of the outer touchscreen, and wherein the firstportion comprises an extension configured to engage the recessed region.19. The explosion proof assembly of claim 15, wherein the mobile deviceis configured for taking photos via a camera lens, wherein the secondportion comprises a lens window, and wherein upon assembly the cameralens and the lens window are aligned.
 20. The explosion proof assemblyof claim 15, the assembly further comprising a second sound materialreceptacle and a second sound material disposed therein, wherein thesound material and the second sound material are plugs in a rectangularprism shape, and wherein the sound material and the second soundmaterial each comprise stainless steel sintered material.